Our Library

WHERE IS THE LIBRARY LOCATED?BKC library is located on the 2nd floor of 160 Carpmael Road.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE LIBRARY?The goal of the library is to be a source of Christian resource materials for the church. The library provides materials mainly in print format and from a wide variety of topics as a means to increase knowledge of Jesus Christ, encourage lifelong Christian growth, and to edify Christ’s church.

WHAT SOFTWARE IS USE TO CATALOGUE AND MAINTAIN THE LOAN SYSTEM?Our catalogue and loan system is using the book cataloging software provided by collectorz.com.

HOW DO I BORROW A BOOK?If a book is on loan the due date will be shown in the catalogue. This indicates that the book is not available in the library. Each loan is 21 days. Besides searching for books from the catalogue, you can also browse the collection in our library. If you find a book you like to read from the catalogue you may retrieve it and go to the loan staff for assistance. Then produce your personal details to complete your loan transaction.

WHAT ARE THE LIBRARY HOURS?Mon – Fri : 9.00 am – 4.30 pm (closed 12 pm – 1 pm)
On Sun as the library is use for other activities so a library corner will be set up on the ground floor to facilitate loans.

HOW MANY BOOKS MAY I BORROW?
Currently the limit is set as 3 books per member.

IS RENEWAL PERMITTED?
Currently 3 renewal of 21 days is permitted.

WHAT IF I FORGET TO RETURN AN ITEM?
There are no late fees, however the success of the church library depends on everyone following the 3 week loan term, AND subsequent renewal terms as applicable.

WHAT IF I FORGET TO RETURN A BOOK?
There are no late fees. We trust members will not abuse the system.

WHAT IF I MISPLACE OR DAMAGE A BOOK?
We will request that the member pay for the book replacement. It could be a used or new copy is acceptable.

HOW DOES THE LIBRARY MAKE ITS SELECTIONS?
It is a team effort with inputs from church leaders, staff and members. The following guidelines may applies:
1. Christian worldview
2. Educational significance
3. Artistic quality/literary style
4. Alignment with church core values
5. Favourable reviews/recommendations
6. Quality of factual content
7. Timeliness or permanence
10. Reputation of author/publisher
11. Value in relation to cost and need.
12. Value to the collection

CAN I DONATE BOOKS OR OTHER MEDIA?
Currently we welcome and encourage book donation if they are in good condition. Book plates are available for personal inscription such as “in memory of” or “in honor of”. Books will be vetted by the library team before they will be adopted into the church collection and circulated. Donations become property of Bethesda (Katong) Church and can be dispensed as deemed necessary. Due to natural library use and sustainability matters such as wear and tear, theft, mutilation, or outdated information, the library cannot guarantee that any gift will remain a permanent part of the collection. No drop offs please without consulting the library or church staff prior.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I OBJECT TO A BOOK IN THE LIBRARY?
Objections should be directed to the library team who will look into the matter.

Volunteers are needed to prepare books for loan and to conduct loan transactions on Sunday morning after service. Perhaps a book corner on the ground floor will be set up. Members who are interested in this service or have suggestions can contact the church office at 6345-5752.